Why Do Stamps Have QR Codes?

You may have noticed that many stamps these days have little square barcodes printed on them called QR codes. These strange looking boxes with lots of small squares inside them are popping up everywhere, from product packaging to advertising. But why would the post office put QR codes on stamps?

Why do stamps have qr codes

Top Reasons why QR codes are being added to postage stamps:

Tracking & Security

The main reason QR codes are added to stamps is to allow better tracking and security measures for mail. Each unique QR code contains encrypted information about that specific stamp, such as where and when it was printed and distributed. This helps postal services track the movement of mail and detect any potential fraud or misuse of stamps.

When a letter with a QR code stamp goes through automated sorting machines, the code is scanned and tracked. This stamp data builds a record of the envelope's journey through the mail system from collection box to final delivery. If any issues arise, like a damaged or suspect piece of mail, the QR code provides more detailed tracking information.

Richer Information

While not their primary purpose, QR codes also allow senders to optionally encode a small amount of extra metadata into the stamp. For example, a QR code could contain a short text message for the recipient that displays on their phone when scanned.

Some postal services have even experimented with using QR codes as simple connectivity links. For instance, a QR code on a stamp could provide a link to upload a photo or video to include with the letter's digital tracking information.

Novelty & Marketing

Putting QR codes on stamps also provides an opportunity for creative marketing by postal services. Unique or innovative QR code stamp designs can attract stamp collectors and generate publicity.

Some commemorative stamp releases may include QR codes that can be scanned to view multimedia content related to the stamp's theme or subject. This turns physical stamps into interactive artifacts that can tell richer multimedia stories.

While QR codes on stamps may seem like an unneeded complexity, they actually serve some valuable logistics and security purposes for postal systems. They help track mail movements, detect fraud, and in some cases can provide additional multimedia links.

FAQ’s

Are stamps without QR code valid?

Stamps without QR codes are still valid for postage, but there have been changes in the postal system regarding the use of stamps with and without barcodes. While traditional stamps without QR codes can still be used, newer stamps with QR codes offer enhanced security features and tracking capabilities. The introduction of QR codes on stamps aims to prevent reuse, enhance security, and provide additional benefits like improved tracking and unique identification for each stamp.

Can QR stamps be reused?

QR stamps cannot be easily reused due to the unique barcodes they contain. These barcodes are designed to prevent stamp reuse by making it difficult to peel off and reuse stamps, thus enhancing security and preventing fraud. The unique codes in QR stamps are not meant to be reused, and the technology embedded in these stamps can detect if a stamp has been through the postal system more than once, helping to deter fraudulent activities like stamp reuse.

So the next time you see the strange little barcodes on your stamps, you'll know they're an innovative way for posts to bring mail into the digital age with better tracking capabilities. Even old-fashioned letters can benefit from some high-tech upgrades!